I have completed my first project - a kitchen table. I used stain and 3 coats of fast drying polyurethane (oil based). I am trying to figure out how long before I actually can use the table. I called the maker of the polyurethane and they said it will be fully cured in 7 days. I googled it and saw poly cure times of up to 21 days. I'm not sure if they were talking about the type of poly I used, though. Does anyone have any experience with fast drying poly on a dining table? I want it to be completely cured/washable before I begin using it. Thanks!
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Tsu Dho Nimh
Sat, 03/19/2011 - 14:34
There are several levels of
There are several levels of "cured" ... and it partly depends on the temperature and humidity where the piece it. Dry, warm environment cures faster than humid or cool ones.
Cured enough that you can handle it without leaving fingerprints in the finish ... usually 24 hours.
Cured enough to use with care ... 3-5 days. HOWEVER, if you leave things sitting on the finish at this stage they may stick to it over time. Newspapers, placemats, cans, books ...
Really, really cured so the placemats or food cans don't stick ... 2 to 3 weeks.
In reply to There are several levels of by Tsu Dho Nimh
ittybittybuddy
Sat, 03/19/2011 - 18:33
Thank you so much for this
Thank you so much for this advice! That helps me a lot. I live in the south so it is warm but pretty humid. And I don't use placemats but I do keep a container in the center with salt/pepper, etc. I will keep this off the table until it is really, really cured.